Correlation of Carrying Angle with Body Mass Index among Females of Hyderabad Pakistan

Background: The carrying angle (CA) of the elbow is a critical biomechanical feature that varies between genders and with physical characteristics like Body Mass Index (BMI). Past studies have shown mixed results regarding the influence of BMI on CA, making it an area ripe for further investigation. Objective: To explore the correlation between BMI and the CA of the elbow among adult females in Hyderabad, Pakistan, and to assess how variations in BMI affect the elbow's CA. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 385 adult females from Hyderabad, Pakistan, selected through non-probability convenient sampling. Participants were required to be over 18 years of age and without any prior upper limb surgeries. The CA was measured using a manual goniometer while standing in the anatomical position. BMI was calculated using measured weight and height. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, with the Pearson correlation test determining the relationship between BMI and CA. Results: Among the participants, 71.9% exhibited a normal CA, 23.6% displayed a decreased CA, and 4.4% had an increased CA. The Pearson correlation test showed a significant positive correlation between BMI and CA (p-value = 0.006), indicating that higher BMI is associated with an increased CA. Conclusion: The study found a significant association between BMI and CA among females in Hyderabad, Pakistan. This suggests that BMI is a relevant factor in the biomechanical characteristics of the elbow, which may have implications for the clinical assessment of joint function and health.